Aimed at addressing the shortage of nursing professionals in Maharashtra, the state government has approved a monthly stipend of ₹11,000 for BSc Nursing students during their one-year internship. Maharashtra Health Minister Tanaji Sawant announced that this decision will benefit around 12,000 nursing students interning in government and private hospitals.
This financial support is a landmark development in the nursing education sector, as nursing students have long been advocating for a stipend during their internships. Previously, interns received no financial aid despite the demanding nature of their work, which often involves hands-on patient care under challenging conditions. The lack of compensation has been a growing concern for students and nursing organisations, including the Maharashtra Nursing Council and the Indian Nursing Council. They have consistently lobbied for better recognition of the vital role that nursing interns play in the healthcare system.
Mira Bhujbal, President of the Maharashtra Nursing Council, welcomed the government's decision, describing it as a "significant step forward" for nursing education and professional development. Bhujbal emphasised that the stipend offers much-needed financial relief to students and helps underscore the importance of their contributions to healthcare. She believes this initiative will strongly incentivise students to pursue nursing as a viable and rewarding career option.
Nursing students and associations have echoed similar sentiments, celebrating the move as a significant victory for the profession. For many students, financial pressures often serve as a deterrent in choosing nursing, which requires both dedication and long hours. This newly introduced stipend is expected to draw more students into nursing programs, which could, in turn, help bridge the significant gap in healthcare personnel across Maharashtra.
The government's decision to invest in nursing professionals also reflects a broader recognition of nurses' critical role in maintaining the healthcare system, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the growing demand for skilled healthcare workers, the state aims to create a sustainable and attractive career path for nursing professionals.
According to reports of Indian Express, by supporting nursing students financially, the Maharashtra government is addressing an immediate concern and working toward strengthening the state’s healthcare infrastructure. This move is expected to inspire other states to follow suit, providing a blueprint for enhancing the professional lives of nurses across the country. Ultimately, the decision underscores the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services through better-trained and well-supported medical staff.